Run OpenClaw Securely in Docker Sandboxes

Docker Blog

by Jennifer Kohl

February 23, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Docker Sandboxes introduce a new way to securely run AI agents and workloads in isolated micro VMs, offering strong isolation, ease of use, and robust security features. This innovative Docker primitive provides a network proxy that blocks unauthorized internet connections and injects API keys directly into the network layer, preventing exposure within the sandbox environment. This setup allows users to run OpenClaw, an open-source AI coding agent, locally without relying on cloud services or API keys, reducing costs and enhancing privacy. The process is streamlined with just a few commands: pull the desired model using `docker model pull`, create and configure the sandbox with network proxy settings to allow localhost access, and then launch OpenClaw. This approach enables developers to experiment with local models while maintaining security through isolation. For cloud-based workloads, Docker Sandboxes automatically handle API key injection without exposing sensitive information. Docker Sandboxes are particularly valuable for DevOps professionals as they provide a secure and efficient way to manage AI-driven tasks. By isolating workloads and controlling network access, Docker Sandboxes reduce the risk of security breaches and unauthorized data exposure. This tool is ideal for teams looking to balance cost-effectiveness with robust security, whether running local models or leveraging cloud services. The integration with Docker Model Runner further enhances flexibility, allowing seamless switching between local and cloud-based models within the

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Originally published on Docker Blog on 2/23/2026